The Rockdale Memorial Day Parade was established to pay tribute to those who have served and sacrificed from the Civil War to the present day. Celebrating its 144th year, early newspapers report that the parade began in 1881 as a Decoration Day procession through the streets of Rockdale to Calvary Episcopal Cemetery.
Historically, on Memorial Day, citizens, post members, drum corps and bands gather at the monument to honor those that have fallen.
This years parade will feature a guest speaker by the name of Ralph Galati.
Ralph was born and raised in Philadelphia. He received his Bachelor of Science degree from St. Joseph’s University (Philadelphia, PA) in 1970 and was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Air Force.
He attended USAF Flight Training in 1970, and received his Wings in 1971. He was a Weapon Systems Officer and Forward Air Controller in the F-4 Phantom aircraft assigned to Ubon Royal Thai Air Force Base in Thailand in the fall of 1971.
On February 16, 1972 he and his pilot were shot-down over North Vietnam and were immediately captured and taken to Hanoi. He spent the next 14 months as a Prisoner of War.
Ralph was repatriated on March 28, 1973.
$2 from every shirt sold this year will be donated to the POW fund.
Annual bicycle parade will set up and stage at the Rockdale Art Center begining at 0930.
Bring your own decorations or use ours!
We will also have staff to help your child decorate.
Kids get free kids meal courtesy of Texas Roadhouse (while supplies last)
CASH prizes for the Top 3!
As always there will be free hot dogs, pretzels and drinks for everyone courtesy of the Lenni VFW.
Free water ice also courtesy of Georgeo's!
Free rides for the kiddies on the J & A Wagon Express in Poore Park.
Start gathering by 10 and enjoy some patriotic music and fun with your neighbors! We'll have t-shirts and hats for sale.
Veterans please come to Hospitality table for your free gift.
Parade approx 11:10 and remarks and memorial after. We will have additional parking across at township bldg this year now that the New Rd bridge is open.
This will continue to be updated.
If you are an Aston or Middletown resident or business and you would like to particiapte in the parade please reach out.
All are welcome.
Also check out other Kids events & activities in Aston.
